Total and Sempra Energy sign U.S. LNG export MoU

Sempra Energy and Total have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that provides the framework for cooperation in the development of North American LNG export projects.

The scope of MoU covers continuing the development of the Cameron LNG liquefaction-export project in Louisiana and Energía Costa Azul (ECA) liquefaction-export project in Baja California, Mexico.

The MoU between Sempra Energy and Total contemplates Total potentially contracting for approximately up to 9 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of LNG offtake across Sempra Energy’s LNG export development projects on the U.S. Gulf Coast and West Coast of North America, specifically Cameron LNG Phase 2 and Energia Costa Azul (ECA) LNG. Total, which is already a partner of Cameron LNG joint venture with a 16.6 per cent stake, also may acquire an equity interest in ECA LNG.

"The U.S. is increasing its global leadership position in the production of oil and natural gas”, said Jeffrey W. Martin, CEO of Sempra Energy. “In large measure, the next step in fulfilling our country’s energy potential is the development of critical export infrastructure for LNG. Sempra Energy has a long-term goal of developing more than 45 Mtpa of LNG export capacity in North America. That is why our relationship with Total is so important. We plan to leverage the competitive strengths of both companies to accelerate development of North American LNG exports to global markets.”

“This relationship with Sempra Energy will support our goal of building a diverse portfolio of LNG supply options that offers our customers flexibility, reliability and low-cost North American natural gas,” said Patrick Pouyanné, chairman and CEO of Total “We are pleased to collaborate with Sempra Energy and the other Cameron LNG co-owners to extend the Cameron LNG project and to further enhance its competitiveness, but also participate in the development of export capacity on the West Coast of Mexico, which will benefit from synergies with existing infrastructure and from a significant shipping cost advantage for customers in Asia.”

Development of LNG export facilities is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including obtaining binding customer commitments, required regulatory approvals and permits, securing financing, completing the required commercial agreements and other factors, as well as reaching a final investment decision. The ultimate participation by Total remains subject to finalisation of definitive agreements, among other factors.